Montessori Approach to Observation & Progress Reports

We were recently asked how we report a child’s “academic” progress. Our two-fold answer to that question is that at the primary-age level (3-6), we observe each child holistically rather than focus mainly on their “academic” progress. We observe, take careful notes, and then record them into the child’s file at the end of a class session.

So what exactly do we observe?

Certainly, “academically” we observe what materials that a child is drawn to, introduced to, struggling with, or has mastered. A check off form can be used for each child, which is kept in a teacher’s binder.(You can find various free downloads on the internet.) This is used as a daily guide and later can be utilized as a reference when conducting a parent-teacher conference, but NOT to be handed out to the parent. The form has all the Montessori activities in the classroom listed with a basic Key, such as:

Introduced

Working on

Mastered

Ratings such as “good, fair, and poor” or “1, 2, 3, 4, 5…” is not an acceptable means of evaluating a child’s progress. Remember, we never assign “grades.”

IMPORTANT! This type of reporting is just one element of the “bigger picture.” Looking at the “whole child,” our focus turns more to the following categories:

Behavior and social interaction

Communication and language skills

Work habits

Perceptual and reasoning ability

Motor skills – fine and gross

Environment interaction

These six categories, above, require handwritten observation notes as opposed to a check-off a list. Included within these categories are subcategories, with the following goals in mind for the child:

A joy of learning

Self discipline

Attachment to reality

Self confidence

Enjoyment of quiet

Willingness to listen

Inquisitiveness

Desire to explore

Love of order

Appreciation of nature

Respect for others

Respect for materials

Peace-making skills

Ability to concentrate

Exercise freedom of choice

Show self initiative

Care for the environment

Spirit of cooperation

Ability to work independently

Exercise self care

Again, through careful observation and note taking, this is how we are able to monitor each child’s progress, holistically. On that note, happy observing!